While the Kickstarter project in early 2021 was a bit out of our wheelhouse–photography is indeed our passion that is now showcased in the final products–a couple of different sizes of the Guns & Girls coffee table photobook. Truly, the excitement of creating a book that one can feel with your fingers is a real treat these days.
The Birth of an Idea
Guns & Girls Cover: Volume One
During the process of creating a Guns & Girls calendar, we realized that we had a wonderful collection of surplus photos and we thought it would be an incredible waste to not try to put them to use.
This coffee table book idea was born!
A huge thank you to all of our Kickstarter supporters for helping make this first photobook a reality–we know the rewards have been amazing. Your support not only helped us put together the photobook; but, it allowed us an opportunity to hire more models in these difficult times.
The photobook is a collection of everyday women–most of whom are not models by trade. The pairing of real-life women and a variety of firearms gives an authentic look to the photographs giving this coffee table book even more viewing enjoyment.
We’re excited to offer this incredible photobook to the aficionados of firearms and to those with a keen eye toward the beauty of the female form.
Lessons Learned
As with any project with duration and moving parts–lessons learned may always be gleaned and with reflection give future projects more positivity and efficiencies.
Wardrobe
Who doesn’t love black lingerie? The problem is most firearms are also black and black-on-black there is simply not enough contrast to showcase the guns AND the lingerie.
Painted nails are amazing against the black firearms. Painted nails are now a strongly suggested request.
Scenery and Backgrounds
As we don’t have a studio, we rely on either outdoor shooting or a venue where we can put up a backdrop. We’ve used a 6′ x 10′ American flag, a 36′ diameter parachute or the natural setting of the venue.
The flag made for an amazing background, but it would constantly need to be adjusted up or down based on whether the model was standing or sitting or laying.
Having a three-step foot stool was key in any of the quick changes and doubled as a stand for top-down photography.
Survey the Room
Make one last visual sweep of the room to ensure no personal items like photos, articles of clothing, or water bottles are visible. These can be removed in post production; but, it’s much easier to remove the items prior to the photoshoot.
Tools
I’m not a fan of post production tweaks… BUT, I find I can make minor tweaks to really bring out the art in each photograph. A subscription to Adobe Lightroom is a must!
Volume Two
Guns & Girls Cover: Volume Two
With the success of Volume One of the Guns & Girls photobook we’ve been given the encouragement to embark on a second journey and produce a part two. The models have really enjoyed the shoots and it’s given me an opportunity to chat about firearms with folks that may not have ever had any exposure. Even the pre-photoshoot lesson on the Four Basic Firearms Safety Rules has been an important part of each session.
Naturally, as models express an interest during the photoshoot, I can go deeper on history of the particular pistol or rifle and teach about calibers, proper holding of a gun, gun materials, etc.
We are always happy to share our knowledge of firearms or photography.
For reference, the original Kickstarter Press Release is as follows: